Weight loss injections are fast becoming a popular choice, but they also raise important questions. Are weight loss injections safe and effective? Which one delivers the best results?
At our practice, led by Dr Harald Puhalla, we provide a clear, honest and medically sound perspective on all your weight loss options, with our goal being to provide a solution that’s right for you.
Let’s jump into the truth about how the injections work, what results you can realistically expect, and whether they fit into a comprehensive, long-term health plan.
How Effective Are Weight Loss Injections?
For many people, weight loss injections are remarkably effective. Clinical trials and real-world results have shown these injections for obesity treatment injections to offer the best outcomes when paired with healthy lifestyle changes.
Participants in a randomised controlled trial who used semaglutide (a medication that belongs to a class of weight loss drugs called GLP-1) alongside lifestyle interventions lost about 10-15% of their baseline body weight. In contrast, those in the placebo group lost only 2.5-5%.
Weight loss injections are a new class of medication belonging to a category known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 is a hormone produced naturally in your gut that regulates appetite and blood sugar. These medications mimic the effect of this hormone, leading to two key outcomes:
- Reduced Appetite: They help you feel full faster and for longer, which naturally leads to a reduction in calorie intake.
- Slower Digestion: By slowing down the movement of food through your stomach, they increase feelings of satiety and help regulate blood sugar levels.
Originally developed to treat diabetes, GLP-1s’ ability to reduce appetite and slow digestion also leads to significant and lasting weight loss, which is why they’re now also prescribed for metabolic health treatment too.
What Can I Expect When Starting a Medical Weight Loss Program?
True, lasting weight loss goes beyond just the medication. It’s a supported journey that requires a comprehensive plan. Our medical weight loss program is designed to provide you with the tools, guidance and ongoing support you need to lose weight and maintain a healthier life going forward.
Here is what you can expect:
A Structured, Three-Month Program
Our program is a dedicated three-month commitment that begins with a detailed initial consultation with Dr. Puhalla. We’ll discuss your medical and lifestyle history to tailor a plan that’s right for you.
Medication and Resources
You will be prescribed a modern GLP-1 receptor agonist medication, which helps regulate appetite and improve metabolism. To get you started, you’ll also receive a starter pack with a multivitamin, collagen, a portion plate and bowl and other product samples.
Ongoing Professional Support
Your journey is a team effort. You will have five dietitian appointments over three months, once every two weeks, to assist with diet modifications and assess your progress. You’ll also have monthly check-ins with a bariatric nurse to ensure you get answers to any of your questions and feel supported the entire journey.
Long-Term Weight Loss Maintenance After Injections
We address both the physical and mental aspects of weight loss with our 12-month Fresh Start coaching program. This is designed to help you overcome mental obstacles and build a solid foundation for a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.
If you’re considering medical intervention for weight loss, contact Dr Harald Puhalla’s practice to schedule a consultation today. We will provide an evidence-based assessment of your unique situation and help you choose the most effective path forward, whether that’s weight loss medication or a more permanent solution.
FAQs
Are weight loss injections safe?
Yes. When used under the guidance of a medical professional, weight loss injections are considered safe and effective.
How long do I need to be on the injections to see results?
The initial medical weight loss program is a three-month commitment. The medications are designed for long-term, continuous use combined with healthy lifestyle choices to achieve lasting results.
What do weight loss injections cost and are they covered by insurance in Australia?
The cost of weight loss injections in Australia can vary depending on the specific medication and dosage. While some medications may be subsidised by the government under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for certain medical conditions, it’s important to note that Medicare does not cover the cost of these injections.
What happens when you stop weight loss injections?
Returning to previous eating habits can lead to weight regain. This is why a long-term strategy is so important. With our 12-month Fresh Start coaching program, you’ll get the tools, support and education to maintain your progress and ensure a lasting transformation long after you stop the medication.
